Review the Scriptures and consider the questions as you reflect on The Bright and Morning Star
David’s Lamp and God’s Lamp
Scripture to Explore: 2 Samuel 21:17; 22:29 “But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, and struck the Philistine and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, saying, ‘You shall no longer go out with us to battle, lest you quench the lamp of Israel.’” (2 Samuel 21:17, ESV)
“For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness.” (2 Samuel 22:29, ESV)
a. David was called “the lamp of Israel,” yet he himself declared, “You are my lamp, O Lord.”
What does this contrast between David being Israel’s lamp and God being David’s lamp reveal about the difference between a human “light” and the true, divine source of light?
b. Why is it important for us to recognize this distinction today? How might confusing the two lead us to depend too much on people instead of the Lord?
Key takeaway: True light comes only from God, not from human wisdom.
The Prophecy of the Great Light
Scripture to Explore: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” (Isaiah 9:2, ESV)
Isaiah prophesied about the coming Messiah in the Old Testament, passages that first-century Jews would have known and recognized pointed to the coming Messiah.
a. How did this prophecy prepare them to see the coming of the Messiah and how does it point us to see Jesus as the great Light?
b. What does this verse teach us about God’s heart for those in darkness-both in Isaiah’s time and in our world today?
Key Takeaway: God’s truth is timeless, shining light to every generation.
Fulfillment in Christ, the Bright Morning Star
Scripture to Explore: “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” (Revelation 22:16, ESV)
a. Why do you think Jesus chose to use the title “the bright Morning Star” to describe Himself?
b. The morning star signals that a new day is coming. How does the image of a star rising before dawn deepen or help you understand Jesus’ role in bringing the final fulfillment of God’s promises?
Key Takeaway: Jesus is the Great Light that signals Eternal Hope.
From Pagan Symbol to True Glory
Scripture to Explore: “…until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.” (2 Peter 1:19, ESV)
Peter uses beautiful imagery for his readers in the scripture noted.
a. Reflecting on the term “Morning Star”, How does Christ redeem what was once a pagan or counterfeit symbol, transforming it into a picture of splendor, glory, hope, strength and majesty?
b. What does this reveal to you about His power to bring truth out of distortion?
c. How can you apply this same power to your daily walk with Him?
Key Takeaway: Christ redeems what is distorted and reveals the true glory in himself.
All light points to Christ. He turns darkness into dawn. He fulfills every promise of hope. He is glory and strength and Majesty. May His light rise in your hearts…. The Bright and Morning Star!
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